Intel is developing an internet-based TV service that it hopes to sell to US consumers. Intel has for several months been pitching media companies on a plan to create a "virtual cable operator" that would offer US TV channels nationwide over the internet in a bundle similar to subscriptions sold by cable- and satellite-TV operators, people familiar with the effort told the Wall Street Journal. Intel wouldn't provide internet access, which subscribers would obtain separately. The TV offering would use Intel technology, and in at least some scenarios under consideration, would use Intel's name. In its presentations to media companies, Intel says it is making its own set-top box to carry the TV service, and it has demonstrated an interface for users to browse programmes. Intel has told media companies it hopes to launch a service by the end of 2012, though it faces hurdles such as scarce bandwidth and the high price of TV programming. An Intel spokeswoman declined to comment.
